Disney introduces lesbian characters to mixed reviews

Since 17 states throughout the country have legalized same-sex marriage, the media has been showing a lot more support for the cause through music, fashion and even popular TV shows. On Jan. 26, Disney Channel took a big step by introducing their first ever gay couple on an episode of “Good Luck Charlie.”

This episode has angered many parents, but the reason that the show will not be having a reappearance of the lesbian couple is that the show is ending for good on Feb. 16.

“Like all Disney Channel programming, it was developed to be relevant to kids and families around the world and to reflect themes of diversity and inclusiveness,” a Disney representative said.

Related Stories

The reason this episode was such a big deal was not only because of the fact that it was the first time something like this has been on this children’s network, but it was also the way that it was handled. The show is about a family with five kids. In this episode, one of the kids, Charlie, has a playdate with another little girl. When her friend comes over with her parents, Charlie’s parents handle the fact that it is two moms very well. There were no awkward moments and none of the children even questioned it.

This has resulted in differing opinions. While many see it as a step forward, others are upset. The website onemillionmoms.com has protested Disney Channel’s episode of “Good Luck Charlie” stating, “Just because something may be legal or because some are choosing a lifestyle doesn’t make it morally correct. Disney should stick to entertaining instead of pushing an agenda.”

“I don’t think children should be seeing that at such a young age,” Eastern Michigan University sophomore Kendall Marshall said of the episode.

Disney isn’t the only family network that has taken a step towards supporting same sex couples. ABC Family’s original series “The Fosters” has a lesbian couple as two of its main characters and it has also had a transgender teenager on it recently.

The hit show “Pretty Little Liars,” also an ABC Family series, has a lesbian character but has not suffered any drops in ratings because of it, seeing how the character has been openly gay since the very first season.

Since the “Good Luck Charlie” episode was aired, Disney has publicized its alliance with Family Outfest, a weeklong Florida vacation for gay, lesbian and transgender families.

“I think it’s fine,” said Ypsilanti resident Norman Grinstead. “In our changing society, parents should accept that kids will eventually have to deal with this anyway.”